LA Angels' Pitcher To Lead 34th Annual Walk Against Drugs

MISSION VIEJO, CA — The 34th Annual Walk Against Drugs is returning to Mission Viejo, and this year, Los Angeles Angels' pitcher and Mission Viejo native Patrick Sandoval will serve as the keynote speaker.

This year's event will feature a "Strike Out Drugs" theme and is designed to unite the city, sheriff's department, local schools, businesses and community groups to promote the message of staying drug, alcohol, tobacco and vape-free.

Sandoval, who was born and raised in Mission Viejo, will start the festivities at 8 a.m. during a half-hour in-person rally at Mission Viejo High School, 25025 Chrisanta Drive.

The walk will begin at around 8:45 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 15 and residents should prepare for a roughly two-mile trek down La Paz Road through the Oso Creek Trail to Oso Viejo Park on the east side of the Norman P. Murray Community Center.

The 34th Annual Walk Against Drugs takes place from 8 a.m. to noon and is open to residents of all ages. Participants are also encouraged to sport red T-shirts in honor of Red Ribbon Week in October.